Visit: See a makerspace in action!

One of the best things you can do when starting a new makerspace is to find at least one makerspace near you to visit. It will inspire you to see the space in action, and you will connect with people who can help you as you develop your space. If the links below don’t yield any results close enough to you, try Google searches for your city name (and cities close by you) with the word makerspace and its synonyms.

Raspberry Pi – a $35 computer the size of a credit card with lessons you can use with students

Funding: Ideas to pay for your makerspace

Donated materials: Put a donations box outside the door of your makerspace. You can also publish a list of requested items on your blog or newsletter.

Electronics drive: For broken items or new.

Fundraisers: Sell buttons or other items made in the makerspace, such as jewelry.

PTA/PTO: Ask your parent association for funding.

STEM: Is there money set aside for STEM projects in your school district?

Donors: Look for people in your community who will want to give to your space.

Local businesses and universities: They often have leftovers and “old” technology they can share. Local hardware stores can have materials to donate.

Local groups: Consider partnerships with organizations such as Scouts, 4H, or a local theater group that might want help making props. Also check with your Chamber of Commerce and service organizations (i.e. Kiwanis) for donations.

Local makerspaces and Hackerspaces: They may have extra materials they are willing to lend or share. Also check with local robotics, quilting, sewing, knitting, crocheting, woodworking, pottery, and writing groups.

Buy used materials to save money, and frequent local thrift and scrap stores for treasures.